Houston, TX — The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts is once again lifting the curtain for local creativity, officially opening applications for its highly anticipated 2025–26 Houston is Inspired initiative. Running through June 1, 2025, this city-centered program invites Houston-based artists and performing arts organizations to take center stage in a powerful celebration of cultural expression, innovation, and community.

Born in the Heart of Houston’s Arts Scene

Launched in the 2023–24 season, Houston is Inspired is more than a residency program—it’s a transformative platform that champions the unique voices of Houston’s performing artists. Originally built on curated partnerships, the program now embraces an open application model for the upcoming season, signaling the Hobby Center’s deepened commitment to equity, representation, and inclusion.

“This is a bold new chapter for Houston’s performing arts,” said Deborah Lugo, Vice President of Programming and Education at the Hobby Center. “Through Houston is Inspired, we’re not just providing space—we’re uplifting the full creative force of this city, supporting artists holistically through funding, production, and promotion.”

What Selected Artists Receive

The program offers a week-long residency at Zilkha Hall, one of the Hobby Center’s premier performance venues. Each selected artist or organization will receive:

A $20,000 stipend to develop and deliver an original performance (90–120 minutes)

Five full days of access to Zilkha Hall, including dressing rooms, technical equipment, and professional production support

A customized marketing and promotional plan executed in collaboration with the Hobby Center’s experienced team

Total support valued at over $60,000 per residency

Community Praise and Artistic Impact

Artists who have already participated in Houston is Inspired are singing its praises.

“From leadership to crew, every person involved during our recent inclusion was consistently supportive, efficient, and kind,” shared Dr. Jason Oby, Artistic Director of the Houston Ebony Opera Guild. “The Hobby Center’s professionalism and care made the entire residency a smooth and stress-free experience.”

Bringing Diverse Voices to the Forefront

At its core, the initiative reflects the Hobby Center’s mission: to serve as a connector, convenor, and incubator for Houston’s dynamic arts landscape. From Broadway productions to local showcases, and from student matinees to world-class performances, the Hobby Center continues to be a cultural cornerstone since its opening in 2002.

“Houstonians are full of talent, heart, and stories,” Lugo added. “This series amplifies the voices of artists who reflect the rich cultural diversity of our city and bring forth the kind of performances that inspire, provoke, and unite.”

How to Apply

Applications are open to Greater Houston-based performing artists and organizations who are ready to present a compelling, original performance within the guidelines. For full eligibility details and to begin your application, visit TheHobbyCenter.org.

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The Hobby Center invites all eligible arts organizations and artists based in Greater Houston to apply. To learn more about program eligibility and the application process, visit TheHobbyCenter.org.

The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts serves as a connector, convenor and incubator for all Houston audiences, artmakers and arts organizations. Opened in 2002, the campus houses two theaters including the 2,650-seat Sarofim Hall and the 500-seat Zilkha Hall. Delivering a best-in-class patron experience, the Hobby Center welcomes over 500,000 audience members annually to engage with high-quality arts programming including the Memorial Hermann Broadway at the Hobby Center series. The Hobby Center is also home to a full season of musical theatre produced by Principal Resident Company Theatre Under the Stars, as well as a variety of diverse performances from both Houston-based and touring artists and companies. Education and accessibility initiatives are central to the Hobby Center’s impact in Houston through programs like the ExxonMobil Discovery Series that welcomes thousands of students to free performances every season. Please visit TheHobbyCenter.org. Follow the Hobby Center on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.